Missing teeth can take a toll emotionally and physically over time as biting and chewing become compromised. The good news is that dental bridges in Mission, TX, offer an effective solution for replacing missing teeth and restoring both function and confidence with a natural-looking smile. As an established dental treatment option, bridges utilize crown work to “bridge the gap” left by one or more missing teeth, creating the appearance and feel of a complete set of teeth once again. In this post, our Clover Hills Dentistry dentist duo explores the advantages and disadvantages of dental bridges.
Advantages
Whether you’ve recently lost a tooth due to decay or trauma, or you’ve been living with a missing tooth for quite some time, dental bridges in Mission, TX, are an excellent choice for replacing teeth that can restore your smile’s appearance and function. Other advantages include the following:
Affordability
If you’re considering dental bridges in Mission, TX, don’t let cost be a deterrent. As a way to restore your smile, you might be pleasantly surprised to learn how affordable they can be. Many dental insurance plans cover a portion of or the entire cost of dental bridges, which can make them a practical choice for those needing restorative dental work. Even without insurance, dental bridges offer a great value compared to other options like dental implants.
Alignment
When a tooth is lost, it creates a gap in the dental arch, and neighboring teeth may shift over time to fill the space. Consequently, missing teeth can lead to misalignment, which can affect your bite and jaw alignment. Fortunately, a dental bridge can prevent this from happening. By using the neighboring teeth as anchors, a bridge fills in the gap left by a missing tooth, preventing the remaining teeth from shifting.
Disadvantages
While dental bridges in Mission, TX, are aesthetically pleasing, affordable, and stable, it’s also essential to have realistic expectations of both the limitations and drawbacks bridges entail.
Minor Enamel Loss
Dental bridges in Mission, TX, can be a lifesaver for those with missing teeth, but they do come with minor enamel loss. The reason for this is that dental bridges must be anchored onto existing teeth surrounding the gap. Unfortunately, this requires removing some of the enamel on those healthy teeth to make room for the bridge. While the amount of enamel loss is minimal, it’s important to keep in mind that any amount of enamel loss can increase the risk of tooth decay or sensitivity. However, with proper care and maintenance, dental bridges can still be a great solution for those needing to restore their smile. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene and maintenance can go a long way in preventing any issues from arising.
Short-Term Solution
While the lifespan of fixed dental bridges greatly varies depending on a number of factors, some studies have shown they can last between 5 and 7 years, while others allude that they can last over a decade with proper care. Although this may not be forever, it can give you the time you need to explore other long-term options. Plus, dental bridges can help improve your speech and chewing abilities in the meantime, making them a short-term solution that can have a significant impact.
Decide On Dental Bridges in Mission, TX
The decision to get bridgework is a complex one that requires carefully weighing the pros and cons. If you’re still deciding whether you should get dental bridges in Mission, TX (or not), contact Clover Hills Dentistry for a professional second opinion.
